Don't let the signs fool you in New Zealand

People walking the Routeburn track need nappies for the trip, according to bogus, yet realistic, Department of Conservation signs. Printed on cardboard in the familiar green and yellow colours, the signs bear even the authentic department and Great Walks logos.

But that is where the similarities end, with messages advising people to wear nappies and directing people to a public toilet up a steep rock face.

One sign found on the Routeburn in September reads: "Please do not defecate in our National Parks. Heavy duty tramping nappies are available from all DOC visitor centres free of charge, and DOC hut wardens carry an emergency supply. Toilets in conservation areas are strictly for urination only."



Keen tramper Robin McNeill said he had seen several fake signs while on DOC tracks. One was short and to the point, reading "if you f**k up, it's your fault", he said.

The signs were either an elaborate prank or a message to the tourism industry to not muscle in on the recreationists, Mr McNeill guessed. DOC Wakatipu programme manager Richard Kennett said the signs had been appearing since winter and had also appeared last year in Fiordland.

Several people had called the department wondering whether the signs were real or not, he said. While he could see the funny side of the situation, there was a real concern people could be led astray by the messages, especially tourists who did not have a good grasp of English, he said. One fake sign advertising an "effluent station" pointed up a steep bluff and could lead to someone injuring themselves, Mr Kennett said.